Your organization’s website is like a front door. Make it inviting and easy to use, and people will come inside and look around. Neglect it and, chances are, they’ll cruise along to the next place. Read More
While “shop local” campaigns can become controversial, seeming to discourage tourists and/or exclude franchises and other locally operated businesses, shopping small is a strategy that is hard to oppose. Consider the following unique strategies to encourage and recognize customers that make the effort to shop small. Read More
Another strategy for ensuring the success of new businesses to your downtown district is to connect them with established mentors. Connecting businesses with mentors that can help them understand the local market, capitalize on or prepare for seasonal changes or major events, and most effectively market to key customer groups can substantially increase their chance of success. Read More
One constant limitation for many small businesses is a shortage of capital for startup, inventory and expansion. Fortunately, there are many tools available today to allow local investors to fund businesses that they support. Read More
Many communities have traditional events they continue to hold because that is what they have always done—even if it no longer serves a specific purpose for the host organization nor provides a defined benefit for the community. Find key questions to consider when thinking about the future of community events. Read More
Surveys are a vital component in evaluating your events. Here are some tips and tricks for acquiring the best survey results. Read More
Events and promotions are an important part of what make your downtown a destination. However, it is important that event hosts have a regular process for reviewing what went well and what could be improved. Read More
Wondering what it takes for a successful Wisconsin Main Street Makeover? From the initial application to the final unveiling, this post covers all the moving parts of the Wisconsin Main Street Program's annual event. Read More
The recent survey found that new business starts in Wisconsin downtowns reached a high-water mark in 2018. With new businesses of all types were cropping up in Wisconsin's downtown, here's how a few found success. Read More
Local events have an outsized influence on the perception and imagination of residents and visitors to the district. Creating memorable experiences for an hour, evening or weekend leaves people wanting more. Read More
